The Engaged Spiritual Life

A Buddhist Approach to Transforming Ourselves and the World

A practical and inspirational guide to connecting personal and social transformation

By the time Donald Rothberg was in his early twenties, he knew he had two vocations. He wanted to dedicate himself to justice and social change, and he wanted to commit himself to exploring the depths of human consciousness-to an awakening of our deeper spiritual nature. It has been his life’s work, as an activist, organizer, writer, and teacher, to bring these two paths together and to reveal how deeply they require one another.

The Engaged Spiritual Life is the fruit of this work. Skillfully weaving together basic spiritual teachings, real-life examples, social context, and exercises, Rothberg provides a clear, thorough, and compelling guide for those interested in connecting inner and outer transformation. At the core of the book are ten spiritual principles and associated practices that will enable readers to engage all the parts of their lives-whether personal, interpersonal, or political-into a seamless whole.

“Few have poured their lives into the contemporary movement that is dedicated to recovering Buddhism’s social outreach with as much dedication and effectiveness as Donald Rothberg.” —Huston Smith, author of The World’s Religions

“Donald Rothberg is a remarkably talented teacher whose writing, like his teaching style, is interesting, engaging, upbeat, and—most importantly—hopeful. This is the authoritative map describing the connection between wisdom and social action, and it does so clearly, simply, nonacademically, and entertainingly. The specific practices it offers inspire confidence that transforming ourselves and the world is a possibility-which is the best message in the world in times like these.” “

Reviews

Review:Shambhala Sun - December 1, 2006

“…this guide will be useful to progressive spiritual practitioners from all traditions.”

Review:Spirituality and Practice - October 1, 2006

“With grace and persuasiveness…this substantive guidebook weds theory and practice in a vital and memorable way.”